An Ipswich woman who lost her aunt to suicide has spoken out about the importance of mental health awareness.

Laura Macleod, 25, said there “shouldn’t be any shame” surrounding mental illness, adding that “there is always somebody out there that will listen and will understand”.

Ms Macleod, who works for Ipswich Town FC, added that she suffered from an eating disorder when she was 19, and has since had severe bouts of anxiety and depression – resulting in occasionally debilitating panic attacks and breakdowns.

She said that the club’s new campaign promoting mental health awareness was a step in the right direction.

“It really touched me, particularly with the suicide aspect because I lost my auntie to suicide when I was 14,” she said.

Ms Macleod said there should be "no shame" in talking about mental health Picture: SARAH LUCY BROWN

“Getting the knowledge and the information out there for people that don’t necessarily know where to turn – I think that would be the best thing.”

• If you are having suicidal thoughts, contact the Samaritans on 116 123.

• Suffolk Mind are available on 0300 111 6000 or at info@suffolkmind.org.uk.